Our client East Midlands Combined County Authority is currently seeking a Planning Assistant to join their Highways team on a permanent basis. This role involves supporting development management and the strategic planning processes, with a particular focus on highways development and infrastructure.
Strategic Planning: Help shape the future of the East Midlands
We are building the core team that will deliver the first Spatial Development Strategy (SDS) for the East Midlands Combined County Authority (EMCCA). This will be a 25-year plan covering housing, infrastructure and land use across Derbyshire and Nottinghamshire.
Led by Mayor Claire Ward, EMCCA has a clear growth mission, along with the powers, governance and partnerships needed to make it happen.
Planning in England is evolving rapidly, and the SDS is central to that change. We are looking for planners who can navigate complex evidence, identify what really matters and bring forward creative, practical solutions.
The role calls for strong judgement, imagination, and the ability to build a robust case under scrutiny. We are especially keen to hear from those with solid plan-making experience, a collaborative mindset and a genuine enthusiasm for strategic spatial planning.
Above all, we want planners who care deeply about the places they work in and the people who live there.
Our planning team is expected to grow significantly in the near future. Potential responsibilities may include Mayoral Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL), strategic development management and the use of call-in powers.
Joining at this stage gives you a unique opportunity to help shape and build the function from the ground up.
We want our SDS to set a national standard for how data and digital tools can improve planning. This includes enabling faster plan-making, better decisions and stronger alignment between national, regional and local priorities.
We are looking for people who are excited by this digital future and are ready to work collaboratively with local authorities and partners across Derbyshire and Nottinghamshire.
Job Requirements:
- Experience in development management and strategic planning
- Understanding of planning principles and policies relevant to highways
- Strong analytical and research skills with the ability to interpret data effectively
- Excellent report writing and documentation skills
- Effective communication skills for stakeholder engagement
- Ability to work collaboratively within a team environment
- Proficiency in relevant planning software and tools
If you have experience in development management and planning within the highways sector, and are looking for a permanent role within a progressive organisation, we would love to hear from you. Apply now to join our client's dedicated team in the East Midlands.
